Myoglobinemia and myoglobinuria in unconscious children.

Myoglobinemia and/or myoglobinuria was demonstrated in 12 of 17 unconscious children studied. Myoglobinemia was noted in patients with serum CPK levels above 200-250 units. Ten of the 12 patients in whom myoglobinemia was present had convulsions. Some degree of renal disturbance was noted in six of seven patients with myoglobinuria. Five patients, including four with renal disturbance, died. In unconscious children with myoglobinuria the possibility of a disturbance of renal function should always be considered.